Reset (Mandelic Serum)

Reset is a multi-acid exfoliating serum built for people who want smoother, clearer skin without the irritation that comes with stronger acids. The formula combines mandelic acid and lactic acid — two gentle AHAs that dissolve dead skin cell buildup, refine texture, and improve tone over time — with niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to reinforce the skin barrier and reduce fine lines and pore appearance while the acids work.

Mandelic acid's larger molecular structure means it penetrates more slowly than glycolic acid, delivering meaningful exfoliation with significantly less risk of redness, irritation, or post-inflammatory darkening. This makes Reset one of the most versatile exfoliants in the line — well-tolerated by sensitive skin, combination skin, and deeper skin tones that are more prone to PIH from aggressive exfoliation.

Available in three strengths: 5%, 8%, and 15%.

5% — For first-time acid users, reactive or sensitive skin, and anyone recovering from barrier damage. Gentle enough to layer with other treatments once skin has adapted.
8% — The sweet spot for most skin types. Delivers visible texture improvement and tone-evening. Best starting point for combination and regular acne-prone skin.
15% — For experienced users who tolerate exfoliation well. Addresses persistent congestion, PIH, and uneven texture more aggressively. Not recommended for sensitive skin.

What it does:
- Exfoliates dead skin to reveal smoother, brighter texture
- Clears clogged pores and reduces blackhead formation
- Fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks after breakouts)
- Refines pore appearance over time
- Reduces early fine lines with consistent use (niacinamide + cell turnover)

Who it's for:
Reset suits oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types, sensitive skin (start at 5%), and melanin-rich skin tones (mandelic is far safer than glycolic for darker skin). It's appropriate for anyone dealing with rough texture, PIH, congestion, or early aging.

How to use:
Apply 3–4 nights per week to clean skin after toner. Start at the lower end of your tolerance and build frequency over 2–4 weeks. Do not use on the same night as other exfoliants (Refine, Relief, Salicylic Toner, Mandelic Cleanser as a leave-on). Always follow with SPF the next morning — exfoliated skin is significantly more UV-vulnerable.

Pairs well with:
Balance Wash → Calming Mist → Reset → Fonte → Repair or HydraGel

Frequently asked questions:

*I have dark or melanin-rich skin — is mandelic acid safe?
Yes. Mandelic acid is one of the most recommended AHAs for deeper skin tones precisely because its slow absorption rate reduces PIH risk that faster-penetrating acids can cause.

*Which strength should I start with?
When in doubt, start lower. No acid experience → 5%. Regular AHA user → 8%. Experienced, tolerant skin → 15%.

*How soon will I see results?
Texture improvements are typically visible in 3–4 weeks. PIH fading takes 6–12 weeks of consistent use combined with daily SPF.